When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Bar Car
Why The Bar Car is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Bar Car is a beloved neighborhood bar nestled on Colorado Boulevard in Denver, well-regarded for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot for meeting up with friends. The venue offers a cozy, intimate setting centered around a mirror-backed bar that dominates its small space, fostering a social and inclusive vibe. Regulars affectionately gather here to enjoy good company, catching up over a great selection of drinks and hearty food. A highlight is the impressive local beer lineup, showcasing Colorado's vibrant craft beer scene with all draft options sourced locally except for a single PBR tap, reflecting the proprietor’s pride in supporting local brewers. Patrons often enjoy signature snacks like the famous truffle fries from the now-closed Jonesy's EatBar, which provide a nostalgic and flavorful treat reminiscent of Denver's culinary past. Friendly service and a crowd that ranges from longtime neighborhood regulars to newcomers create a lively yet comfortable environment. Whether stopping by for a quick drink, a casual dinner, or late-night conversations, The Bar Car offers a genuine, unpretentious experience that captures the essence of a true local watering hole.
Here's what people think of The Bar Car
As of recent, The Bar Car holds a 4.5-star rating based on 572 reviews.
Reviews of The Bar Car exhibit a mix of appreciation and criticism, with an overall rating of 4.5 from 572 reviews indicating general customer satisfaction. Positive feedback frequently highlights the bar’s authentic and cozy atmosphere that feels like a community hub, along with its excellent selection of local craft beers and memorable menu items like the truffle fries. Many patrons praise the friendly staff and the lively environment that suits both quiet weekday nights and bustling weekends. The ambiance invites patrons to engage in deep conversations and enjoy a relaxed pace of service. On the downside, some negative reviews mention issues such as inconsistent customer service, occasional long waits especially during busy times, and a sometimes overwhelmingly loud and crowded environment that can detract from comfort. A few customers noted unfriendly staff experiences or difficulties with order accuracy, which contrast with the friendlier reports but appear to be situational rather than the norm. In summary, while The Bar Car is generally well-liked as a genuine local bar with a strong sense of community and quality offerings, occasional service shortcomings and noise levels may affect some visitors’ experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shawn Roberts
The Bar Car is quickly become one of my favorites and so glad I can walk here. Atmosphere is great, the staff are all as nice as can be, excellent drink selections and the food is Damn good.
Jennifer Lonnes
I think bartender and one of the owners told me upon my asking that the bar had been there since 1940-something and originally was The Boulevard Inn. It's a quaint and small place, that I'd return to. Perhaps we'll return for food sometime.
E M
Wow! I'm so annoyed that my first time at this bar was this last Saturday because it's now on my list of favorites and I've been missing out for the past 5 years in Denver. My husband and I went for date night after some Korean BBQ next door. I didn't know what to expect especially since we were not too familiar with this neighborhood. My husband and I got a seat at the bar and ordered some drinks. It's not quite a "dive bar" but it's not uppity and pretentious like some places in and around Denver. They have a touch tunes type box which we love and got to play some songs that another bartender enjoyed as well. The friendly bartender told us about the Owl saloon, too which wer are definitely going to try as it's less than a mile from our home . It seemed like it might have been a local favorite hangout and quite honestly reminded us of "home" in the South. Thanks for a great evening!
Angela Oswald
Generous drinks at a great price. Fantastic atmosphere and the bar tenders were top notch! We have a new favorite spot!
Scott Goldin
Highly would recommend this place. The ambience is cool. The drinks are cheap, and the food is phenomenal. The staff are super friendly and create a fun energy for the bar.
How to reach The Bar Car
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Website: None
Why The Bar Car may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Bar Car with your friends?
The Bar Car is an ideal destination for friends and family looking to gather in a relaxed, welcoming environment where good times flow naturally. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 570 reviews, this bar captures a neighborhood vibe that blends familiarity with vibrant energy. It's a spot where locals feel at home, and newcomers quickly become part of the community. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, perfect for catching up, celebrating milestones, or simply unwinding after a long day. The Bar Car prides itself on a thoughtful selection of local draft beers and a menu that features beloved comfort food favorites like truffle fries, creating a shared experience of great drinks and tasty bites. Because the space is small but lively, it encourages intimate yet dynamic conversations, making it excellent for personal get-togethers. Additionally, the bar’s welcoming service and regular events foster a sense of camaraderie—ensuring your group meetup will be memorable and enjoyable. For anyone seeking a cozy, genuine neighborhood bar to rally with friends, The Bar Car is a strong contender that delivers authenticity and spirited socializing.
What activities can you enjoy at The Bar Car that make it great for group meetups?
At The Bar Car, the core activity revolves around social drinking complemented by a menu designed to enhance your gathering. This bar specializes in an impressive lineup of local craft beers on tap, giving guests the opportunity to sample a variety of regional brews. This focus on local taps supports a community feel and often serves as a great conversation starter during meetups. Beyond drinking, the kitchen offers comfort food favorites, including the much-loved truffle fries, which recall the lost classic from Jonesy's EatBar, adding a nostalgic and exclusive touch to your night out. Though it’s not a venue known for live music or games, the tangible energy created by friendly patrons chatting over good drinks creates its own kind of entertainment. The Bar Car regularly hosts local events and even lively birthday parties, which add to the spirited atmosphere ideal for groups who want to celebrate together. Whether arriving early to snag seats on the small front patio or settling by the mirror-backed bar, guests find ample opportunities for rich social interaction and unwinding alike.
Why is The Bar Car perfect for a group meetup?
The Bar Car’s strong local focus and intimate layout make it perfect for groups seeking a close-knit experience. The relatively small size of the bar means groups can easily find cozy seating arrangements that encourage conversation without the cavernous feel of a large club or sports bar. The bar features a prominent mirror-backed bar counter that serves not only as a stylish focal point but as a natural gathering spot where friends can sit side by side to chat and share drinks. The friendly, approachable service ensures that groups feel welcomed without pretentiousness, an atmosphere often appreciated by longtime patrons and newcomers alike. The mix of steady local clientele combined with a casual dress code means guests can relax and be themselves, making the social experience feel genuine and comfortable. The availability of a diverse range of craft beers from local breweries caters to varying tastes, creating common ground for shared enjoyment. Also, the presence of local patrons who consider The Bar Car their regular spot often fosters a community vibe that enhances group meetups, making visitors feel part of something special.
What makes the atmosphere at The Bar Car unique for socializing?
The Bar Car maintains an atmosphere steeped in neighborhood charm and authenticity, setting it apart as a bar that feels more like a welcoming living room than a commercial venue. Its relaxed vibe invites people to step in, put down their worries, and focus on connecting with friends or making new ones. The bar’s interior is intimate rather than sprawling and showcases a warm, dimly lit ambiance that encourages deep conversations and genuine interactions. It is commonly described as having a “Cheers” atmosphere, where the bartenders know regulars by name and the focus is on creating a hospitable environment over flashy entertainment. Despite its small footprint, the energy inside is palpable—regular patrons gather, laughter is shared, and the clinking of glasses punctuates the inviting buzz. The Bar Car’s location on Colorado Boulevard makes it a convenient meeting spot for locals, enhancing its role as a social hub in the area. Regular events, like birthday parties or casual theme nights, add a layer of excitement without overwhelming the relaxed setting, ensuring groups always find the perfect balance of atmosphere and comfort.
What food and drink options make The Bar Car a strong choice for gatherings?
One of The Bar Car’s defining features is its curated selection of local draft beers that celebrate the vibrant craft brewing scene unique to the area. This specialization appeals to beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, providing a range of flavors from hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, alongside the ever-present PBR for those who prefer a classic choice. This thoughtful beverage lineup supports lively tasting sessions and makes ordering a group round a breeze. On the food front, the bar offers a few standout dishes, with the truffle fries being a crowd favorite—a nostalgic nod to Jonesy’s EatBar’s famous fries—perfect for sharing among friends. While the kitchen may be small and the menu somewhat limited compared to full-service restaurants, the quality and distinctiveness of the available options complement the beers elegantly and keep the focus on socializing rather than formal dining. The Bar Car’s offerings are designed to enhance the overall experience—simple, flavorful pairings that fuel conversation and create shared moments. Affordable drink prices also make it an accessible choice for groups who want to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.
How accessible and convenient is The Bar Car for group meetups?
Situated conveniently on Colorado Boulevard, The Bar Car is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike, making it well-suited for groups that want a hassle-free meetup spot. The central location allows for easy public transit options and ample nearby parking, reducing logistical barriers for guests arriving separately. The bar’s hours, which stretch from early afternoon into the early morning, provide flexibility for groups to convene during the day, evening, or later night. This versatility accommodates varied schedules, whether meeting for a casual Sunday brunch-like experience or a late-night drink. The intimate size, while cozy, also means reservations or early arrival can be advantageous for sufficiently large parties, ensuring space without crowd-related stress. The Bar Car’s friendly vibe and approachable service make group hosting smooth and welcoming, with bartenders typically attentive to needs even when busy. Whether your meetup is celebratory, casual, or simply a chance to reconnect, the bar’s accessibility and local familiarity ease the gathering process and enhance the overall enjoyment.
How does The Bar Car support a memorable experience for special occasions?
Beyond casual gatherings, The Bar Car has built a reputation for being a lively venue for special occasions such as birthday parties and local celebrations. It embraces these events in its neighborhood style, with the bar often hosting personal celebrations like 100th-plus birthday parties that reflect its role as a community cornerstone. The staff are experienced in facilitating joyful events even within the bar’s intimate setting — ensuring the group’s needs come first without sacrificing the everyday welcoming vibe. The combination of approachable pricing, a solid drink menu, and well-loved food items like truffle fries make the logistics of celebrating easier and more enjoyable. The lively energy and the camaraderie among patrons during these events contribute to memorable nights full of laughter, shared stories, and great drinks. Selecting The Bar Car for your group’s special occasion rewards guests with a genuine, friendly atmosphere rarely found in larger, more commercialized venues, fostering a sense of belonging and warmth.
What should groups know before visiting The Bar Car for a meetup?
Groups planning to meet at The Bar Car will appreciate knowing it’s a smaller bar, which means while the atmosphere is intimate and lively, it might get busy during peak hours, so arriving early or checking availability can enhance the experience. The bar focuses on local craft beers, which provides a great tasting variety but means the beer selection may change regularly, ideal for adventurous groups but possibly less predictable for those with fixed preferences. The ambiance is cozy and somewhat dimly lit, designed for comfortable conversation rather than loud entertainment or music, so it’s best suited to groups looking to socialize rather than party. While the kitchen offers popular favorites, food options are limited, so eating beforehand or ordering simple shareables with your drinks is recommended. Service is generally friendly and hospitable, but like many neighborhood bars, it sometimes reflects the rhythms of regulars and staff interactions—newcomers are quickly made comfortable with open-mindedness and friendliness. Overall, The Bar Car is perfect for groups valuing authenticity, great drinks, and the chance to connect in a genuinely local setting.